Police ask drivers to turn off vehicles, take keys after large number of car thefts

ATLANTA — More than 2,000 cars have been stolen so far this year in Atlanta and police have a message they hope will slow that number’s growth.

Police talked about the problem at a news conference Thursday afternoon.

Police said it sounds simple but they are urging drivers to not leave their car running or leave the key in the ignition.

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Atlanta Deputy Police Chief Timothy Peake said a majority of car thefts this year were due to thieves having an easy target.

“Earlier in year, about 70% of vehicles were left with keys in ignition. We’re (now) at 60%, but that’s still too many,” Peake said.

Police said the stolen cars are then used in other crimes, causing a drain on police resources.

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